Janet Jackson Opens Up About Her Upcoming Album & Love of Kendrick Lamar’s “Poetic Justice”

Janet Jackson has really got it going on these days. Not only is she happily married to Qatari billionaire Wissam Al Mana, she celebrated her 47th birthday this week and she doesn’t look a day past 30!

Although she’s been keeping a low profile these last couple of years, she opened up about her new music in a recent interview with Billboard.

“I am working on a new project now. We are creating the concept and initial thoughts on the music. I am excited about the direction we are taking. I don’t want to rush it… I don’t want to put a time constraint on the creative process,” she shared. “I’ve been exposed to all types of great music. I like to collaborate on my music. The creative process is fun and you get a lot of ideas from having discussions about it. Ultimately, the final decision is mine.”

She went on to say that she’s flattered to have an impact on artists such as Kendrick Lamar. “I have listened to the music that is out there and I love Kendrick’s “Poetic Justice.” There are artists, true performers that have come before me who have been a big inspiration to me. I hope I do the same for others.”

She added, “I’m flattered that other artists consider me a role model. I’m really enjoying what Bruno Mars and Adele are doing, a lot of artistry there.”

It’s hard to believe that it’s been 20 years since the release of Janet’s self-titled album, which included hits like “That’s the Way Love Goes,” “Any Time, Any Place” and “If.” The youngest Jackson revealed that this was the first album to capture her sexual side.

“I can’t believe it is already 20 years! I always write my music based on what is going on in my life at the time. I wanted to allow people in… I want my fans to really know me. The ‘janet’ album was sexual and I was beginning to really discover that side of me,” she said. “I write about my experiences or things that touch me deeply. I was really beginning to get in tune with my sexual self. This is what I wanted to express so I did. The decision to move forward in an artistic way is mine. I didn’t need to convince anyone.”